Buyers Home Inspection

If you are reading this blog, then you must have taken at least a first step towards purchasing a new home. You may be very close to making an offer on a new home for you and your family. However, before you jump in with both feet, you need to be sure the home is adequately inspected.  Such an inspection will offer you a detailed home inspection report, and provide excellent insight into the quality of the home.

The results of a high quality home inspection are a key component to the sale of a home since (i) it provides confidence to the buyers; (ii) banks and mortgage companies rely on the findings; and (iii) the purchase contract may reference the findings from the home inspection. Clearly, inspecting the physical condition of a home is a very important aspect of the home-buying process.

A qualified home inspector performs the home inspection using a detailed checklist to ensure every aspect of the home and the property is thoroughly investigated. It is beneficial to cross check your home inspection report with that provided by the seller to ensure nothing has been missed.

Structural Inspection

 It is vital for the home to be structurally solid and safe. Structural features inspected include roofing, floors, attic, walls, ceilings, columns, basement, and foundation. The Home Inspector seeks to identify any sloping or cracking that could result in longer-term issues.

Roofing

It is imperative for the inspection report to confirm that the roof is free of leaks since any water seepage can cascade into significant problems.

External features of the home

The inspection would cover the patio, deck, exterior windows, and doors etc. The garage is also checked as a part exterior inspection. Water drains are tested for proper functioning.

HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Inspection

Air conditioning, heating, plumbing and electrical are examined for proper performance. The inspector checks all the utilities for the proper installation and function. This includes vent systems, water and waste drainage, water system, etc. Home inspectors examine the proper functioning of appliances to check for plumbing or electrical issues. The home inspection focuses on key safety issues, with an emphasis on the electrical components.

Interior Inspection

The interior home inspection covers ceilings, floors, walls, and stairs. Every aspect of the interior is evaluated, and relevant findings are outlined in the inspection report.

Insulation and Ventilation Inspection

The home inspection includes a check of ventilation in the kitchen, bathroom, and attic. Home inspectors check the foundation and subfloor for any issues. Every home is checked for possible problems based on the geographical location.

A buyer must recognize that the home inspection will identify meaningful issues with the home – issues that a buyer would like to be aware of. At the same time, the home inspection cannot guarantee that there will be no repairs in the future. All homes require ongoing maintenance for minor issues, and it is not the goal of a home inspector to outline each potential minor issue.

If the home inspection reports that the house is in generally good condition, the buyer will have much greater confidence in the attractiveness of the purchase.

Also, if the inspection identifies certain issues — such as electrical or plumbing damage/problems, etc. — the buyer can negotiate with the seller to pay for necessary fixes OR appropriately adjust the purchase price.

For detailed information on all aspects of home inspection, visit www.symmetrize.com.